by D. P. Noe

Created on: January 21, 2009   Last Updated: May 11, 2011

It always seem to happen when you need your voice the most. Coming down with an episode of laryngitis when you have planned a speech or are giving an important presentation can be compared to an unlucky spin of the wheel. If you wake up in the morning and all that is coming out is a raspy voice, chances are laryngitis has decided to mess up your plans.  Laryngitis iis caused by the inflammation of the larynx, and that causes the hoarseness in the voice. Do not panic, this always seems to happen when you need your voice the most, There are things you can do to manage this condition, and you do not need to make an appointment to see your doctor.

When you take in a breath of air, it passes through the nose and the nasopharnynx, or through the mouth and the oropharynx. These are both connected to the larynx, by a tube made of cartilage. Your vocal cords that are responsible for setting up vibrations that are necessary for speech, are located in the larynx. The air then travels down the larynx to the trachea. The trachea splits into two branches, which are called the left and the right bronchi. The bronchi then branch into smaller air tubes in the lungs that lead to small air sacs of the lungs known as alveoli.

The epiglottis is a leaf like piece of cartilage that extends upward from the larynx. The epiglottis is what has the ability to close down over the larynx when an individual is eating or drinking, this prevents the food or drink from entering the airway.

When an individual has laryngitis, the tissues that are below the level of the epiglottis are swollen and inflamed. This inflammation causes swelling around the area of the vocal cords, causing the vocal cords not to vibrate normally. Laryngitis is almost always caused by a virus. It is the same virus that cause colds and uncomplicated upper respiratory infections, that is responsible for laryngitis.

Treatment for a simple viral laryngitis involves treating the symptoms. Rest, and getting enough fluids and gargling with warm salt water can help to resolve laryngitis. It is also helpful to use a vaporizer to create a moist air environment. Over the counter medications like Tylenol can be used to relieve any discomfort.

There are alternative treatments that some people chose to use. These alternative treatments include aromatherapy inhalations that are made with lavender,benzoin, frankincense, thyme and sandalwood. Individuals who believe in alternative treatment may also use Echinacea tincture that is taken in water every 48 hours to boost their immune system. Sometimes simply placing a cold compress on the throat may ease the symptom of laryngitis.

In order to prevent an episode of laryngitis, is the same like for any cold or upper respiratory infection. Practicing good hygiene and hand washing is vital to prevent the spread of illnesses. Avoiding situations where individuals are sick so you do not come in contact with sick people is good common sense. The good news is that if you do develop a case of laryngitis, the prognosis is excellent and a complete recovery can be expected.

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